Tomorrow night’s match against Roma will be a crucial one in Milan’s season for two reasons. First, it is a direct clash with the current league leaders.
Second, it represents the team’s last match under full emergency conditions, as key returns such as Pulisic’s are expected for the next game against Parma. Allegri will also be without Tomori and Gimenez, both injured in Bergamo against Atalanta, leaving him with few options in defense and attack. De Winter will replace the English defender, while Nkunku will start alongside Leao up front.
A Major Test for Nkunku
Since his arrival, Nkunku has sparked mixed reactions. Many were pleased with what looked like a major signing, yet surprised because the club had initially targeted a true number nine as the main objective of the summer window. Christopher has done little so far to turn that surprise into excitement: only 108 minutes in five league matches, plus 61 in the Coppa Italia where he scored against Lecce. His physical condition has never reached full fitness, but it’s already November and Milan need more from the former Chelsea player, who will start for the first time at San Siro. It’s an important test, though not decisive. Nkunku must move past the struggles of his last two seasons in London, where he managed just six goals in 38 Premier League appearances, and try to rediscover the scoring form he had at Leipzig with 47 goals in 119 Bundesliga games.
On paper, Milan’s attacking lineup has quality with Pulisic, Leao, Nkunku, and Gimenez. Still, doubts remain about its structure: only one true striker, one second striker, and two wingers capable of playing centrally. Against Roma, the main curiosity will be the connection between Leao and Nkunku, with the Frenchman expected to play as a false nine. His technical skills suit the role, but he must show the right mindset and greater focus than in his recent outings, where he often looked out of rhythm despite limited minutes.
Season’s key player
Milan paid €38 million plus €4 million in potential bonuses to Chelsea, without lengthy negotiations, making Nkunku the most expensive signing of the RedBird era. It was a strong statement for a 27-year-old player in his prime. The club believes they have given Allegri a player who can become decisive, a difference-maker capable of adding 10 to 15 goals alongside Leao and Pulisic. That is why, from the Roma match through the January transfer window, a month that will shape Milan’s season, as Allegri recently hinted, all eyes will be on Nkunku.
